The Dallas Cowboys are gearing up for a pivotal decision regarding wide receiver George Pickens as they approach the NFL offseason. After a standout season, Pickens is expected to command a considerable contract, with projections suggesting a cost of $28 million if the Cowboys opt to use the franchise tag on him.
Entering the final game of the 2025-26 season, the Cowboys will soon turn their focus to addressing significant gaps within their roster. Among those decisions is the future of Pickens, who has enjoyed a career year. He ranks third in the league with 1,420 receiving yards, accumulating 92 receptions and nine touchdowns this season.
According to Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report, while the franchise tag may be the most likely route for the Cowboys, it comes with its financial implications. “Dallas may not be eager to give Pickens the sort of long-term deal he”d likely command on the open market,” Knox states. The team has substantial salary commitments tied to CeeDee Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott. Additionally, the Cowboys previously considered trading Micah Parsons due to the budgetary strains of managing multiple high-value contracts.
Knox further emphasizes that should Pickens hit the free-agent market, he could demand more than $30 million annually, but it appears unlikely he will be available until at least 2027. “Prediction: Dallas uses the franchise tag on Pickens,” Knox adds.
Despite the financial constraints, Prescott and the coaching staff have shown interest in retaining Pickens for the next season. The Cowboys will need to carefully navigate their financial strategy to determine how they can maintain their competitiveness while managing their salary cap effectively.
As the offseason approaches, the Cowboys find themselves at a crossroads, needing to balance the desire to keep a star player with the realities of their financial commitments.
